1981 Nissan Laurel vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (238 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (123 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 303 kg more than 1981 Nissan Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Nissan Laurel is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1981 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (222 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Nissan Laurel | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
Model | Laurel | Golf |
Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2753 cc | 3196 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 238 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6250 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1245 kg | 1548 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4180 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2470 mm |